squash casserole with ritz crackers

SQUASH CASSEROLE WITH RITZ CRACKERS

INGREDIENTS AND SUBSTITUTIONS

Here is an overview of the ingredients you will need and any applicable substitutions:

Squash: This recipe requires 7 cups or about 5 small to medium sized crookneck or summer yellow squash. You can substitute other types of squash (acorn, delicata, butternut) or go half and half. One of the more popular ones is making half summer squash and half zucchini.

Shredded Cheddar: I prefer a good sharp or extra sharp cheddar.

Green onion – For color and freshness in the flavor. It’s an excellent zing.

Ritz Crackers – The crispy, buttery taste of Ritz crackers is the perfect finishing touch for this recipe, but other crackers can be used to suit your tastes. I crush the crackers in their sleeve or a ziplock bag with my hands. If you like a more even or fine texture cracker topping, use a food processor.

Butter – Unsalted or salted is fine.

*You may notice there aren’t any seasonings in this dish beyond salt and pepper. Some like to include ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. I don’t find it necessary, personally, but try it out if you desire.

STEP BY STEP RECIPE GUIDE

1. Sauté sliced squash over medium heat until just tender. Since we are pre-cooking the squash, there is no need to dry your squash slices. The excess moisture cooks off easily enough. I like the squash to be just tender, but not super soft or mushy. It will cook a little bit more in the oven, so I wouldn’t recommend over cooking it.
2. Put together egg mixture. Beat the eggs and milk first until blended. Then add the butter, squash and green onions. Stir to coat well before pouring the mixture into a baking dish.
3. Layer the casserole. I use a glass or ceramic pan and have never had to grease those. Spread the squash and egg mixture evenly throughout the pan. Sprinkle all of the cheese evenly on top and add the crushed Ritz crackers.

MAIN DISH IDEAS

So. Many. Possibilities! For me it depends on the time of year and how simple I want to be with the entrée. Try it alongside simple marinated grilled chicken or blackened chicken. Also, a simple roast, whether beef or chicken or pork. One of my favorites to serve it with is oven baked parmesan pork chops.

SOUTHERN SQUASH CASSEROLE

WHAT IS A SQUASH CASSEROLE?

Depending on who you ask, you’ll probably get a different answer every time! A squash casserole is something that just about every seasoned home cook has prepared at least once, and there are about a zillion different ways to do so.

In the South, you’ll find that a squash casserole normally includes: